The novel traces the lives of 10 primary characters. Alice Wein, Lara, Rowan, Miranda, Tyler, Nola, Kit, William, Juliet, and Madeline Armstrong have distinct personalities and circumstances. However, the characters are connected in spite of their differences. What role do books and stories play in their connections? Why does the fictional novel Theo recur in each of their storylines? How does Theo link them to one another?

Alice is the author of the fictional novel Theo. What is her relationship to the novel, its story, and its protagonist? Why is Alice reluctant to publish the story? What does she fear will happen to Theo after publication, and why?

Many of the novel’s primary characters experience loss. Which characters encounter death, disappointment, or abandonment? How does loss impact each of these characters? How do they overcome their loss and pursue healing?